The Patriots boast $61 million in salary cap space, per Spotrac, enough to absorb Watt’s hefty price tag. Yet, a proposed trade, Jabrill Peppers, a 2026 second-round pick, and a 2027 third-rounder, lacks the first-round pick Pittsburgh would likely demand.

The rumor mill has suggested that a Patriots trade with the Steelers for TJ Watt is possible, but NFL insiders have shut down the rumors.

Nolan Smith may not have T.J. Watt's resume yet, but he has something equally valuable: unlimited potential and the drive to reach it. The Eagles would be wise to hold onto that combination and see where it takes them rather than to give it away in a Steelers trade.